I have some questions about buying from Shortcovers. I downloaded their app when it fist came out but didn't like that it needed an internet connection to use. I think it has changed since then but I no longer use it.
I bought once from the eBookwise store when I had an eBookwise and it was a huge mistake, the file was un-useable on any other devices. So I have been wary about buying from places like the Sony store and have restricted my buying only to Fictionwise, where everything is either multiformat, or in a form of DRM I can easily convert.
Now, a book has come out that I want, which is for sale at Shortcovers. It is not available yet at Fictionwise and amazon.com is showing a release date in November; this is a Canadian author so perhaps this is one time being a Canadian benefits me
Anyway, I am tempted but I am not sure how this all works.
1) The file is an epub file. Does this mean I can read it on any hypothetical device which supports epub? (e.g. if I ever replace my Sony reader, can I still use this file?)
2) Can I load it into Calibre to transfer onto my Sony or does Calibre not handle DRM files?
3) How do I use the file? I removed the Adobe reader from my Mac when Sony came out with Mac software as it seemed to duplicate the fuctions of the Adobe software and I would rather have that one to rent ebooks from the library and download freebies from the Sony store. Was this a mistake? Can I use the Shortcovers file with the Sony software or must I re-download the horrible Adobe software which kept interrupting me every time I tried to do anything?
4) Basically, I am looking for some reassurance that the file will remain useable for the long term and I am not making a mistake by buying from a new store. After the whole eBookwise fisasco, I developed a comfortable little rut for myself in the ebook world, and I am skittish to venture outside of it